China fears: Scientists warn volcano extinct for 500,000 years 'appears to be recharging' 

Scientists from the University of Science and Technology of China were studying the Weishan volcano – located inside Wudalianchi volcanic field of the northeast of the country. This volcano last erupted around 500,000 years ago, but there have been other, far more recent eruptions in the complex. The Wudalianchi volcanic field covers around 193 square miles and contains 14 steep-sided cinder cones that are surrounded by lava flows. 

The last eruption at the site was in 1776, but a study led by Ji Gao – published in the journal Geology last month – says there may be activity taking place under Weishan.

The team created a 3D map showing the structure beneath, apparently identifying two magma pockets.

Previously, scientists had identified a shallow magma chamber beneath the volcano.

In the latest study, the team found this shallow chamber in the upper crust, along with another deeper down, in the middle crust.

Researchers say the findings are consistent with models suggesting the magma in the middle crust may be serving as a source to “recharge the magma chamber in the upper crust.”

The team say that based on their analysis the melt fraction of the magma in the chambers beneath the volcano are around 15 percent. 

Eruptions are generally thought to take place when this figure reaches 40 percent, but researchers have warned greater monitoring must now be introduced.

They also fear that a number of earthquakes reported in the region since 2008 could indicate the movement of magma – a signal that an eruption could be on the way.

The study reads: “Considering the significant melt fractions and active earthquakes and tremors occurring around magma reservoirs, the Weishan volcano is likely in an active stage with magma recharging.

READ MORE: China’s hidden doomsday: 140-million-year old supervolcano found under Hong Kong revealed

“When the lower chamber recharges the upper one, there should be some movement.

“But so far, after decades of monitoring on the site, we’ve picked up almost nothing. The whole area has been very, very quiet.”

Overall, the study has revealed that the volcanoes in northeast China could be in an active stage.

This poses a grave threat to human life and the environment, meaning further monitoring is required to forecast any implications.

source: express.co.uk